Nigerian Navy Boosts Anti-Smuggling Operations, Hands 372 Bags of Seized Rice to Nigeria Customs
In a renewed push to curb smuggling and other cross-border economic crimes, the Nigerian Navy Forward Operating Base (FOB) Badagry has officially handed over a total of 372 bags of seized foreign parboiled rice to the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), following a series of coordinated anti-smuggling operations within its area of responsibility.
The handover, carried out on Tuesday, 13 January 2026, was in strict compliance with the Nigerian Navy’s Standard Operating Procedures. According to a press statement signed by the Commanding Officer, Nigerian Navy FOB Badagry, Navy Captain B.O. Omotayo, the seizures were distributed to relevant Customs formations for further necessary action.
Specifically, 302 bags of 50kg foreign parboiled rice were handed over to the Nigeria Customs Service, Seme Area Command, while an additional 70 bags of 50kg were transferred to the Nigeria Customs Service, Western Marine Command.
The successful operations underscore the Nigerian Navy’s statutory role in supporting civil authorities to combat smuggling, safeguard national economic interests, and maintain security across Nigeria’s maritime and border corridors.
Since assuming office, the Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Idi Abbas, has consistently articulated a strategic vision of building a highly professional and responsive naval force, working in synergy with sister security agencies to protect Nigeria’s maritime domain.
In line with this vision, FOB Badagry has sustained intensive patrols and intelligence-driven operations across coastal waters and adjoining land areas. These efforts are anchored on professionalism, dedication, and strong collaboration with host communities, sister services, and other security agencies to counter transnational crimes and other threats to the nation’s economy.
The Nigerian Navy reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening inter-agency cooperation and maintaining relentless pressure on smugglers and economic saboteurs operating within Nigeria’s maritime environment.
